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Chrysler
Crossfire Concept "Modern
American" Sports Youthful, International Flair "The
Crossfire concept provides a new image for Chrysler, combining
American power with international flair," said Trevor Creed,
Senior Vice President - Product Design, DaimlerChrysler
Corporation, at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in
Detroit. "The
expressive execution of this small coupe is tangible proof of our
capability to elevate and broaden the Chrysler brand. From its
distinct design to its potent powertrain and suspension, this
modern American coupe is set to impress enthusiasts around the
world." A
classic, clean design with a decidedly youthful flavor is
reflected in the concept's sleek, athletic lines. The sculptured
hood focuses attention on the Chrysler winged badge and new
grille. Built
as a one-piece carbon fiber body on an all-aluminum frame, the
Crossfire's design seems to be more architectural than
traditionally automotive. Similar to the Chrysler Atlantic concept
car shown first in 1995, a center peak line, or "spine,"
runs the length of the car and works with the dynamic character
lines to give the Chrysler Crossfire its chiseled appearance. Its
compact body suggests a low center of gravity and stable stance
with a long wheelbase (102.6 inches/2606 mm) and wide track (58.3
inches/1481 mm front, 59.9 inches/1521 mm rear). Highlighted
by brushed aluminum details, the Crossfire's exterior design
features a "boat tail" emphasizing the rear wheels,
tires and wide fenders, which is a new direction for the Chrysler
brand. Artistically
inspired shapes continue in the wheels, as the eight-spoke design
reinforces the vehicle's sure-footed, grounded look. The concept
is executed in a Sapphire Silver Pearl finish with Starbrite
Silver accents. "If
we were to build it, I feel sure that this could be an instant
classic," said Creed. "The
Crossfire provides the performance and precise handling that would
make this concept a real contender on the street or on the
track," said exterior designer Eric Stoddard. "The
inspiration stemmed from a desire to blend pure sculpture with
technology. We designed the Crossfire for anyone who is looking
for the thrill of driving. It's light, nimble and powerful with an
expressive personality." The
Chrysler Crossfire is powered by a supercharged 2.7-liter, 275
horsepower (205 kW), 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nom) V-6 engine coupled to a
five-speed manual transmission. The custom independent
short-and-long-arm front and rear suspension uses coil springs
placed over the shock absorbers. Nineteen-inch
front wheels with P255/40R19 tires and 21-inch rear wheels with
P295/35R21 tires provide the ride and handling expected from a
classic rear-wheel-drive coupe. The Crossfire is estimated to
achieve 60 mph. (97 kph) in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 148
mph. (238 kph). "The
Chrysler Crossfire was engineered with performance and artistic
expression in mind," said Stoddard. "The powertrain and
suspension system validate the concept's personality as an agile
athlete, while design features beg for individual interpretation.
Its design forces people to react and reflect
simultaneously." The
Crossfire's sophisticated interior complements its exterior. The
interior design effort was led by Glenn Abbott, who said he
aspired to create the feeling of a stylish sports coupe with a
sense of control, accuracy and simplicity. "I
was able to give it a serious, enthusiast's appeal, yet add
significant character to it," said Abbott. "That's most
evident in the design of the carefully crafted instrument panel
gauges, as well as the shape of the steering wheel and
seats." The
Crossfire houses an on-board vehicle data acquisition center. This
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) captures vehicle
performance information and displays it on a passenger-side liquid
crystal display. "We like to refer to this as the
'G-Meter,'" said Abbott. Appealing
to the true enthusiast, the EVIC measures such factors as
acceleration, lap time and g-forces, allowing the driver to
assess, and thereby enhance, the vehicle's optimal performance. A
true two-seater, the Crossfire features electronically adjustable
competition seats, manually adjustable pedals and integrated trunk
space for two helmets, which further emphasize this concept's
spirited theme. Crossfire's
interior sports a rich spectrum of colors and materials, accented
by a two-tone Deep Sapphire Blue and Cedar Tan leather interior,
featuring a brushed aluminum spine-like center console and brushed
accents on the steering wheel. "The
Chrysler Crossfire concept perfectly harmonizes international
flair with modern American design," concluded Creed. |
